But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children’s children to those who keep his covenant and remember to do his commandments.
Psalm 103:17–18 (ESV)
Keeping God’s covenant and doing God’s commandments means firstly loving God with all your heart and secondly love the other like yourself (Matthew 22: 37–40).
In reaching out to the ones in need – with support, a comforter, a hygiene kit or even only an email or app message saying, “We pray for you” or “God be with you” – we show that love.
In forming a circle of believers around a synagogue or mosque that has been attacked; in using whistles to warn people in a neighbourhood to watch out for unlawful arrest; in peacefully protesting war and discrimination; in opening doors of our churches for everyone – we show solidarity with those who are oppressed.
In listening instead of judging and excluding; in accepting that people are different in many ways; in letting go of prejudice and being open to other cultures – we can show how every part is equally important to the body.
A hand on a shoulder, a hug, a piece of friendly advice, serving instead of expect to be served, a visit, washing each other’s feet or even the simple question, “How are you?” – there are so many ways to say: “You are not alone!”
If we want to be true followers of Christ, we have to follow his prayer that we live in unity, even if it is sometimes difficult and rough. Only then, out of solidarity, we can work for peace.
—Henk Stenvers is the president of MWC (2022-2028). He lives in Naarden, Netherlands.
